CVE-2012-2271 in SkinCrafter
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in the InitLicenKeys function in a certain ActiveX control in SkinCrafter3_vs2005.dll in SkinCrafter 3.0 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in the first argument (aka the reg_name argument).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-2271 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the SkinCrafter 3.0 ActiveX control implementation. This vulnerability exists in the InitLicenKeys function of the SkinCrafter3_vs2005.dll component, which is part of the SkinCrafter software suite used for creating custom user interfaces in applications. The flaw specifically manifests when processing the first argument parameter known as reg_name, which serves as a registry name identifier within the licensing mechanism of the software. The buffer overflow occurs because the function fails to properly validate the length of input data passed through this parameter, allowing attackers to supply excessively long strings that exceed the allocated buffer space.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of software security and application sandboxing principles, as it exploits the trust model inherent in ActiveX controls running within web browsers and application environments. The flaw enables remote code execution through a carefully crafted input string that overflows the designated buffer and potentially overwrites adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control structures. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through web-based delivery mechanisms, making it accessible to attackers without requiring local system access or physical interaction with the target machine. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass full system compromise capabilities. When successfully exploited, the buffer overflow can allow attackers to inject and execute malicious code with the privileges of the affected application, typically resulting in complete system compromise. The ActiveX control environment creates a particularly dangerous attack surface because these components often run with elevated privileges and have direct access to system resources, file systems, and network capabilities. The vulnerability affects systems running vulnerable versions of SkinCrafter 3.0, making it a widespread concern for organizations that have deployed this software in their enterprise environments, particularly those that have not implemented proper patch management protocols.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-2271 should encompass multiple defensive layers including immediate patching of affected software versions, implementation of ActiveX control restrictions through group policies, and deployment of application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of untrusted ActiveX components. Network-based mitigations such as firewall rules and web application firewalls can help prevent exploitation attempts by blocking suspicious input patterns. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in legacy software components where buffer management and bounds checking may not have been adequately implemented. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected ActiveX control and ensure proper remediation through official vendor patches or complete software replacement, as the attack surface of such components can persist across multiple system environments and user access levels.